The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has approved funding for the launch of Almond Digital, a specialized online platform dedicated to preventing and reducing gambling-related harm. As part of the initiative, FanDuel will be the first operator to offer Almond directly to Pennsylvania users through its responsible gaming program.
By integrating Almond into FanDuel’s gaming platform, Pennsylvanians and their families will gain access to free, multilingual, and anonymous support services. The partnership represents a proactive public-private approach focused on early intervention before gambling-related financial, emotional, or relationship issues become more severe. Embedding prevention tools directly into regulated online gaming environments is intended to strengthen consumer protections and improve measurable outcomes.
Almond will act as a centralized digital entry point for gambling support services across the state.
Research consistently shows that many people affected by gambling harm do not pursue formal treatment. Almond aims to reach those individuals privately and without stigma by providing anonymous access to support. For users needing more intensive assistance, the platform will also connect them with licensed Pennsylvania treatment providers and local community resources, helping expand engagement with the state’s existing care network.
“This initiative is about reaching people where they already are,” said Representative Jim Prokopiak (D-Bucks). “As online gambling becomes increasingly common, integrating digital prevention tools into player environments strengthens Pennsylvania’s broader consumer protection efforts.”
Representative Joe McAndrew (D-Allegheny) said the funding demonstrates a focus on measurable outcomes. “When support resources are easy to access at the exact moment they’re needed, we have a better opportunity to intervene early and reduce long-term social and economic impacts,” he said.
Cory Fox, Senior Vice President of Public Policy and Sustainability at FanDuel, noted that the company’s responsible gaming strategy centers on giving customers tools and resources that encourage informed decision-making and responsible play. He added that supporting Pennsylvania’s investment in Almond and studying user engagement with the platform will help FanDuel identify additional ways to support players.
Almond says the partnership marks an important step forward in modern player protection strategies.
“This is fundamentally about expanding access and increasing reach,” said Kath Middleton, Chief Product Officer at Almond Digital Health. “Pennsylvania is creating a model that supports individuals both inside and outside traditional treatment systems.”
The phased rollout is expected to begin in the coming weeks in collaboration with sports wagering operators and universities throughout Pennsylvania.
Sourse: press release